All that Jazz, but why?

In an attempt to expand my exposure to different genres of music, and also for the lack of any social life on a friday night, I decided to attend a jazz concert with a male friend. For the very few times that I had heard jazz, it had sounded as if everybody was playing their own tune, not bothering to complement one another. So, I expected it to be a bit like that, but still, I went, as I had nothing else to do (besides the belly dancing party I was invited to a bit later, and which my hypocrite prudish self declined). So we sat down with the program brochures as the ensemble started playing their music. At first, I must say that I was impressed by the soft and smooth flow of the piano. Then the saxophone/trombone came in, and still all was well. But then, everybody joined in, the drums, the flutist, the different types of saxophones (?, not exactly sure what they are called) and then I was lost. For me, it was too many instruments and different types of sounds to handle. I just could not concentrate on any one particular instrument and appreciate the subtle variations in sound and admire the skill of the artist. Of course, there were pieces where only a couple of instruments were playing, and I thoroughly enjoyed those parts. In fact, I think they were just beautiful. But for the rest of the time, I was left a bit unsatisfied. It was sounding a bit random. I guess there is beauty in randomness. I did not hate it as I hate t(h)rash metal, but I could not like it very much either. Maybe it takes a different ear, or maybe I am just not that 'classy'.

Another interesting thing was the conductor. I have had the pleasure of attending a couple of orchestras before, and I have never seen a conductor as animated and mobile as here. The conductor was literally dancing, he was moving about in front of the band, going near the person who was supposed to play next. There was no wand in his hand, he used to gesture with his hands and body movement. But it was nice, he gave energy and enthusiasm to the modest crowd that had gathered. Later in the program, he was replaced by the famous Magali Souriau, and she was equally animated. She lent her vocals to a couple of compositions, which was nice. Never had heard jazz with vocals, so it was fresh for me. I really liked it the way she explained the inspiration and the story behind each of her compositions, it gave us a whole new appreciation for the piece. I wonder why not many people do that.

Some of the compositions that I liked and believe that even jazz-amateurs like me will appreciate are Magali Souriau's Ali Baba, Lady with the Hat and Genevieve.

Overall, I think it was pretty decent. I wouldn't mind going to a jazz concert again. All it lacked was a beer and a girl by my side. But then, that is the solution to all problems :)).